Pseudotumour: an uncommon complication of severe haemophilia

Abstract

Pseudotumours are uncommon complications of haemophilia, occurring in 1%-2% of patients with haemophilia.1,2 It is a slowly expanding haematoma as a result of recurrent haemorrhage, surrounded by a fibrous capsule. It can occur in both bone and soft tissue, and progressive enlargement may result in bone destruction and/or muscle and skin necrosis. Pseudotumours by themselves are usually painless though its mass effect can result in nerve compression resulting in pain or neurologic symptoms. It may also predispose to pathologic fractures (as in our case) and superimposed infections.2,3